Read Online Fading Out by Trisha Wolfe - Free Book Online Page B

laughter, slapping his large leg. These guys could get away with murder in this town.
    When I look at Arian again, taking in her indignant posture, shoulders rolled back, head held high, and the unsure quake rolling through her body that contradicts it all—I realize how far off I’ve been about her. She might have money, but that’s where my assumptions end.
    I should apologize on my guys’ behalf. Right now. But while I’m contemplating the best way, trying to think of words that won’t dig me in further, I think my mouth actually hangs open, my brain trying to formulate these elusive words. Those damn words that always come out all wrong around her.
    “So, you don’t deny it. Good.” She chucks the condom on the bar top.
    “Whoa, wait.” Finally, I can articulate a thought. But it’s too late. Her friend is grabbing their jackets, her face drawn in a sour expression that makes my stomach clench.
    “That was uncalled for,” her friend says. “Tell your buddies…” She trails off with a hard sigh. “Never mind.” Then she’s draping Arian with a green jacket and walking her toward the door.
    Fucking hell.
    I storm over to the table, my chest heavy and breaths constricted. “I thought I said no one fucks with her.”
    Their animated faces drop into tight frowns. “It was a joke, Ryde. Just fucking around,” Beck says. “Besides, she’s a bitch.”
    Anger flares hot and violent in my veins. I breathe in, out. In. Out. Taking measured breaths to calm myself before I blow up at him. Bracing my hands on the table, I lean over them and say, “I hope getting one over on her felt good. I hope it was worth it.” I glance around the table. “Because we’re doing squats until your legs want to kick the shit out of you tomorrow.”
    Mumbled groans travel around the tables.
    My guys know this shit isn’t cool. And they’ll move on after this. Probably even feel like the shits that they are and apologize to her. Ultimately, I wish it hadn’t gone this far. For Arian’s sake, and all the others…I should’ve spoken up a long time ago. I don’t have a real excuse other than cowardice. As long as things go easy, I don’t make ripples. But since Arian came along—with her obnoxious beacon shining a light right on my shameful past—easygoing Ryder is done.
    Nothing about this girl is going to be easy.
    But I’m being selfish, still, wondering just how much damage control I’ll now have to do to set things right between us.
    Because—suddenly and purposely—I realize I’ve been thinking of her in us statements. Hell.
    Two points her.

9
    Arian
    B ecca’s early morning call is not welcome after a night spent at a smelly bar, where I was humiliated—yet again—by the town’s football gods. Then had to walk home in the frosty night air, half wet and freezing, trying not to rage the whole way.
    Vee, I could tell, was torn. The fact that Gavin wasn’t among the others last night helped, but she still couldn’t bring herself to take up my side completely, knowing that Gavin is a member of the opposing team.
    I roll my eyes as Becca drones on through the receiver. Now I’m thinking in sports terms. Really ?
    Which I guess is just as well, considering I’m now a member of the Bobcat Boosters. I’m tempted to crumple the announcement sheet in my hand, but instead, I place it on my nightstand delicately, as if it might combust if I move too quickly.
    “You know your father’s expecting you, Ari.” Becca is tapping her long, manicured nails against her cell. I can hear the click , click , click, while she waits for my response.
    “Fine,” I say, plopping onto my bed. Defeated. “I’ll go. What time?”
    The clicking stops. “Seven. And don’t worry about finding something to wear. I’ve already requested a gown be made.” A beat. “It will be ready when you arrive. We’ll go out for mani-pedis before the initial fitting.”
    My chest twinges with an annoying, sharp pain. “What size?” I